5. Jake Gardiner's Improving Play

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Jake Gardiner is just 23 years of age and has played 167 NHL games in his young career. His 31 points this season represented his highest point total at the NHL level, but this tells only some of the story.

In terms of Corsi-for percentage in five-on-five situations, Gardiner compared favorably to his teammates. In other words, the Leafs were better with him on the ice.

While some would argue that's not a great accomplishment on the defensively challenged Leafs, it is significant, as Gardiner should only get better as his defensive play continues to improve.

He's a great skater with strong offensive awareness. He's a building block for the Leafs, and look for him to be a star at the upcoming IIHF World Championships for Team USA.

4. Phil Kessel and JVR as Offensive Leaders

Kessel was a force in almost every game this year, and while he won't be up for the Selke Trophy any time soon, few players can match his ability to create on the rush. The American was third in shots, fifth in goal scoring and sixth in points in the NHL this season.

While James van Riemsdyk wasn't quite at that elite level, he did tally 61 points and finished ninth in NHL scoring among left wingers.

If an elite offensive centre joined this duo, they could become one of the top offensive units in the league for many years to come.

3. Dion Phaneuf's Relatively Steady Play Despite Little Help

Love him or hate him, and a lot of NHL fans love to hate him, Dion Phaneuf faced the toughest quality of competition among defensemen that played a minimum of 62 games.

He also managed a plus-two rating on a Toronto team that was badly outplayed on many nights.

Without question, Phaneuf can make some big gaffes. Yet if he had some better support, he wouldn't have to play almost all of the tough minutes that Leaf defenders face.

Phaneuf has good offensive awareness and a booming shot from the point. If he is freed up to play a more offensive game, his defensive numbers would also improve as he'll spend more time in the offensive zone with more offensive-zone starts.

If the Leafs can add another veteran, defensive-minded rearguard for next season, he and Phaneuf could be a formidable shutdown duo for the Buds.

2. Nazem Kadri's Maturing Play

Nazem Kadri is going to get an opportunity to play a leading offensive role for Team Canada at the upcoming IIHF World Championships.

The gifted centre should get a lot of play in all game situations, and this will only benefit the Leafs next season. Kadri has all the tools to be one of the better second-line centres in the game.

The London, Ontario native won't turn 24 until October, so he's just beginning to hit his offensive stride at the NHL level. While defensive play continues to be a concern, Kadri should improve in this area as his minutes increase and he matures more.

Kadri's potential is sky-high, and Leafs fans need to embrace him as one of the most promising young centres in the Eastern Conference.